Ignition Switch Replacement

Overview

This guide walks you through replacing the ignition switch on your Porsche 944 S / S2 with the 16v engine. The ignition switch is a critical component that powers up your car’s electrical systems and starter. If it’s faulty—cracked or failing to engage—you might experience starting issues. This procedure ensures you can swap it out efficiently, getting your S / S2 back on the road.

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Tools Required

• Phillips screwdriver #1 tip (smallest standard size)
• Metric Allen wrench set
• Flat screwdrivers (various sizes)
• Small pry bar
• Hammer
• Brass drift or large deep socket (e.g., 32mm or 1-1/4 inch)
• Small scribe or chisel (for marking steering wheel position)
• Steering wheel puller (if needed for stock wheel)
• Good shop light

Parts Required

• Ignition switch – 944 610 911 00 (specific to 944 S / S2)
• Light grease (for switch tang and bearings)

Required Additional Procedures

Steps in these procedures are required to complete this process:

• Steering Wheel Removal and Installation

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Prepare for Disassembly

1. Gather all tools and a small container for screws. Lay out parts in order as you remove them to make reassembly easier.
2. Ensure your front wheels are straight and the steering wheel is centered.

Step 2: Remove the Steering Wheel

3. Follow this link to ensure this step – Steering Wheel Removal and Installation – of the process is followed accurately for the Porsche 944 S / S2 stock steering wheel. This involves removing the center nut (typically 24mm or 15/16 inch) and disconnecting the horn wires.
4. Before fully removing the wheel, use a scribe to mark the steering shaft and wheel hub for alignment during reassembly.
5. Carefully slide the steering wheel off the column.

Step 3: Remove the Turn Signal and Wiper Stalks

6. Locate and remove the three flathead screws on top of the stalk assembly using a flat screwdriver.

7. From below, remove the two screws (one short, one long) holding the plastic housing around the stalks. Split the housing apart carefully.

8. Gently pull the stalks forward, guiding the attached wires out from under the dash. If the stalks separate, reassemble them after removal without disconnecting the wires unless necessary.

 

Step 4: Remove the Spacer Collar

9. Locate the plastic spacer collar around the steering column.
10. Use a flat screwdriver to gently pry it off from the bottom slots, then switch to a small pry bar. Avoid prying near the three small screw holes to prevent breaking them.

Step 5: Remove the Ignition Switch Assembly

11. Find the Allen head bolt on the left side of the steering column, accessible through a hole under the dash. Remove it with the appropriate Allen wrench (likely 5mm).

12. Slide the ignition switch assembly out, noting the attached wires.

Step 6: Replace the Ignition Switch

13. Unplug the wire harness from the back of the ignition switch.
14. Flip the assembly over and remove the small Phillips screw securing the switch using a #1 Phillips screwdriver.

15. Slide the old switch out and insert the new ignition switch (944 610 911 00). Apply a light coat of grease to the switch tang where it engages the lock.

Step 7: Reassemble the Components

16. Reconnect the wire harness to the new switch.
17. Slide the assembly back into place and secure it with the Allen head bolt, tightening to 20 Nm (15 ft-lbs).
18. Pack the steering column bearings with fresh grease before reinstalling the spacer collar.

19. Lightly sand any burrs off the spacer collar and apply a thin layer of grease inside. Tap it back on using a large socket (e.g., 32mm or 1-1/4 inch) and hammer, alternating sides to avoid damage.

20. Reinstall the stalks loosely, then fit the plastic housing around them. Secure with the two screws from below, followed by the three screws on top.

21. Follow this link to ensure this step – Steering Wheel Removal and Installation – of the process is followed accurately to reinstall the steering wheel, aligning your scribe marks. Tighten the center nut to 50 Nm (37 ft-lbs).

Post Procedure Checklist

• Turn the key to ensure the ignition switch activates the electrical system and starter smoothly.
• Check that the steering wheel turns freely without binding.
• Verify the horn works after reconnecting its wires.
• Inspect for any loose screws or components under the dash.

Sources

• Clark’s Garage
• Pelican Parts
• Porsche 944 Workshop Manual, Volume 1
• Youtube